Texas Horned LizardPhrynosoma cornutum

Size:
2 1/4 - 4 in

Distribution

Western 3/4 of state. The Texas horned lizard is a very distiguishable
species in that it is the only species of lizard in Oklahoma with
horn-like scales covering most of its body, making it appear formidable
to potential predators. With its round, flattened body and short
tail, it looks more like a toad, earning it the nick-name "horny
toad". The Texas horned lizard is an ant specialist, feeding
only on the red harvester ants. When threatened, it will squirt
blood from its eyes to deter potential predators.

Once extremely common throughout most of its range, the Texas horned
lizard is now a protected species in Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Department
of Wildlife Conservation is monitoring its progress. It isn't certain as
to why they are disappearing, but one widely accepted idea is the use of
pesticides on the red harvester ant mounds.